5 July 2005 UK Internet security vendor SurfControl has replaced its CEO with former Salesforce.com and Sun Microsystems executive Patricia Sueltz.

Steve Purdham – SurfControl’s founder and previous CEO – will continue in the dual role of chief strategy officer and chief technology officer.

But the appointment of a Silicon Valley veteran suggests that SurfControl has its sights set on becoming a global player. Sueltz is believed to have eschewed an office at SurfControl’s Cheshire headquarters in favour of one at its California campus.

“We are very serious about global growth and Pat is a world class executive with proven experience and knowledge to drive our business to the next stage,” said Purdham.

Sueltz joins SurfControl having left Salesforce.com at the end of May, with a $650,000 payment and amid rumours of disagreements with CEO Marc Benioff.

Prior to this Sueltz had headed up Sun’s services group, which posted record revenues under her leadership, at a time when the company was losing ground in other areas. She has also held several executive positions at IBM.

“This is an exciting time in Internet security and I believe we can build on the considerable achievements to date while delivering significant growth and profitability for our shareholders,” she said.

SurfControl has built a niche for itself in the security market with its focus on web and email filtering technology. While it has a strong European base, it has been looking to establish a larger presence in the US.